Holiday homes & rentals in Edale

Situated in the heart of the Peak District, on the main railway line between Sheffield and Manchester and at the start of the Pennine Way, the charming village of Edale is the perfect destination for those who want to explore the great outdoors. Some of the Peak District's most challenging peaks and most beautiful viewpoints are within a few miles' walk of Edale. Chose your Edale cottage and set off to explore the Peak District.

Going underground

The Peak District is home to several networks of caves, and the area around Edale is no exception. In the hills below Mam Tor, you can take the kids on an adventure underground in two different show caves, Treak Cliff Cavern and Speedwell Cavern. Treak Cliff Cavern is a great place to spot local stone Blue John, including the largest single piece ever found, which is still lying in place in the cave. Visit Speedwell cavern and take older kids on an amazing boat trip along an underground river that runs through the narrow tunnels of an abandoned mine.

If you need some fresh air after all that time underground, make the short drive to Ladybower Reservoir, where there are easier walking trails to suit all abilities, or you can hire bicycles and explore on two wheels. Take younger children to High Lea Hall and Park, a beautiful estate with woodlands for exploring and a play area where they can blow off some steam.

The great outdoors

Serious walkers will enjoy the challenge of climbing Kinder Scout, one of the highest points in the Peak District. The route to the summit and the spectacular viewpoint takes you through different landscapes as you ascend, and past lakes and waterfalls, including Kinder Downfall. Mam Tor, a 500-metre hill to the south of Edale and also known as the Shivering Mountain, offers another great hiking route. On a clear day, you can often see as far as Manchester.

Alternatively, visit one of England's early Norman fortresses, Peveril Castle, in the hills above Edale. As well as a great vantage point, it also has a visitor centre, where you can learn more about the building's history before exploring the ruins yourself.

Traditional celebration

The nearby village of Castleton holds its own traditional celebration at the end of May, Oak Apple Day. Believed to be linked to a pagan fertility festival, the modern version sees buildings in the village decorated with greenery, and the festival king crowned with a heavy garland of flowers. Follow the parade through the town before enjoying live music and the chance to sample food from local producers. Take some goodies back to your Edale accommodation and cook yourself a feast.

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